New York: As of late May 2025, global health authorities are monitoring a new COVID-19 variant that has contributed to rising case numbers in parts of Asia and Europe. The World Health Organization (WHO) has confirmed a modest increase in COVID activity linked to this strain, although no new public health emergency has been declared.
According to the WHO and U.S. physicians interviewed by ABC News, symptoms associated with the new variant appear to be milder than earlier strains, but they also overlap heavily with cold, flu, and allergy symptoms — making self-diagnosis harder than ever.
Most Common COVID-19 Symptoms in 2025
Doctors report that the most frequently seen symptoms with the current variant include:
- Sore throat
- Nasal congestion or runny nose
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Low-grade fever
- Cough (mostly dry)
- Mild body aches
- Occasional gastrointestinal issues (nausea, loose stool)
These are similar to past Omicron variants and continue to differ significantly from the original COVID-19 symptoms seen in 2020–2021, such as shortness of breath and loss of taste or smell (which are now rare).
How It’s Different from a Cold or the Flu
| Symptom | COVID Variant (2025) | Flu | Common Cold |
| Fever | Sometimes (mild) | Common (moderate-high) | Rare |
| Cough | Dry, persistent | Productive or dry | Mild, hacking |
| Runny nose | Common | Sometimes | Common |
| Loss of smell/taste | Rare | No | No |
| Fatigue | Common | Very common | Sometimes |
| Sore throat | Common | Sometimes | Common |
| Headache | Common | Common | Sometimes |
| GI symptoms | Rare | Possible in children | Rare |
What About Long COVID?
The WHO continues to study long COVID risks associated with newer strains. While data is still being gathered, early indicators suggest shorter recovery periods for most people infected with the new variant. However, long COVID remains a risk, particularly in those with underlying health conditions or repeated infections.
Do I Still Need to Test?
Yes. Health officials stress that at-home rapid antigen tests remain useful, especially within the first 3–5 days of symptoms. If you’re unsure whether it’s a cold, flu, or COVID, testing can help guide isolation and treatment decisions — especially for older adults or immunocompromised individuals.
Global Response So Far
The WHO has not labeled the new variant as a “variant of concern,” and there are no travel bans or lockdowns currently in effect. However, some regions have recommended masking in healthcare settings, especially during spikes.
In the U.S., the CDC continues to monitor wastewater and hospitalization trends but has not reinstated broad mandates.
Final Takeaway
- The new COVID-19 variant is spreading slowly but steadily.
- Symptoms are mostly mild and flu-like, but still vary between individuals.
- Testing is encouraged, especially if you live with vulnerable people.
Stay updated via trusted sources — avoid panic, but stay informed.
